Joyful, carefree childhoods are something we all want for children—and something our community is actively working toward together. Preventing child abuse begins with connection, support, and time spent as families and neighbors. The Community Pinwheel Walk brings Medina County families together for a fun, meaningful day that celebrates togetherness while raising awareness about Child Abuse Prevention and the role strong, connected communities play in helping children thrive.
Preventing child abuse is a community-wide effort, and there are many ways to get involved. The Community Pinwheel Walk offers a powerful opportunity to raise awareness, strengthen community bonds, and stand in solidarity with survivors of abuse—while creating positive memories for families.
Honoring Children and Raising Awareness Through Pinwheels
During the Community Pinwheel Walk on Sunday, April 19, participants will gather to plant 457 blue pinwheels, each representing a case of child abuse or neglect investigated by Medina County Job and Family Services in 2025.
The blue pinwheel is the national symbol of Child Abuse Prevention, representing hope, healing, and the joyful childhood every child deserves. Together, these pinwheels create a visible reminder of both the work still ahead and the meaningful progress that can happen when a community comes together to protect children.
Participants are encouraged to wear blue, the official color of Child Abuse Prevention Awareness, as a sign of unity and support.
Event Details and Family-Friendly Activities
12:30 PM – 2:45 PM | Family Fun on Broadway
Check in often for updates!
The Community Pinwheel Walk is designed as a family fun day, welcoming participants of all ages to enjoy time together while supporting an important cause. Pre-walk activities will include:
- 🍔 Food Trucks include DDads and Lerch’s Donuts
- 🍦 Ice Cream Treats provided by Huntington Bank
- Selfie Station designed by Bubbles & Bows LLC
- 🎨 Face Painting by EnchantaRoo Face and Body Art
- 🦸 Character Visits with games and activities by The Fairytale Foundation and Super Heroes to Kids in Ohio
- Permanent Jewelry by Goldie Linx Cle
- 🧒 Activities and Resource Tables hosted by Biker’s Unbroken, Canine Companions, Catholic Charities of Medina County, Hope and Healing Resource Center, Medina County Board of Developmental Disabilities, Medina County Coalition Against Human Trafficking, Medina County Job and Family Services, Medina Recreation Center, OhioGuidestone, Small Hands Big Dreams, and other community organizations
These shared moments of joy and connection reflect the kinds of experiences that help build strong families and resilient children.
Program Highlights and Featured Speaker
2:45 PM – 3:25 PM | Child Abuse Prevention Month Program at Gazebo
Remarks will include:
- Welcome and Recognition of the professionals and partners who support children and families
- Official proclamations recognizing April as Child Abuse Prevention Month from the City of Medina and the Medina County Commissioners
- A survivor sharing her personal journey of healing
Meet our Speaker – Heather Setser
Heather Setser is in her third year of recovery and a graduate of the Medina County Recovery Court Program and the Ohio START Program (November 2024). In September 2024, she was honored with the Family of the Year award from PCSAO. Heather earned her Peer Recovery Support Certification in November 2024 and now works as a Peer Recovery Support Specialist at First Step Recovery in Warren, Ohio. Through her recovery journey, she has experienced firsthand the life-changing impact of recovery, including regaining custody of her daughter in March 2025. Heather is passionate about using her lived experience to support and encourage others on their recovery journey.
The Community Pinwheel Walk Route
The event will conclude with a 1-mile walk with inspirational signs designed and painted by students at the Medina County Juvenile Detention Center
The walk begins at the Historic Medina Square and travels past the:
- Medina Police Department
- Medina County Administration Building
- Medina County Courthouse
The walk will end at the Medina Library, where the Pinwheel Garden of 457 Pinwheels will be planted—serving as a symbol of awareness, prevention, and hope. The Pinwheels planted in the Community Pinwheel Garden represent each of the 457 Cases of Child Abuse or Neglect investigated by Medina County Job and Family Services in 2025. You are encouraged to Wear Blue, the designated color for child abuse prevention and awareness.
How to Register for the Community Pinwheel Walk
Pre-registration is encouraged.
Registration and waivers can be completed:
- Online in advance, or
- In person on the day of the event
👉 2026 Pinwheel Walk Flier to share event details with friends, family, and colleagues.
Working Toward Joyful Childhoods—Together
The Community Pinwheel Walk is more than a single event—it is a reflection of Medina County’s shared commitment to building a future where every child can experience safety, connection, and joy. By spending time together, celebrating families, and raising awareness, we take meaningful steps toward preventing abuse and strengthening our community.
We invite you to join us, walk together, and help build the joyful childhoods all children deserve.
